The Domaine Léon Barral is located in Leuthéric, a small hamlet within the Faugères appellation, not far from Béziers in the Languedoc.

The estate’s history dates back to 1933, when it began as part of the local cooperative. In 1990, Didier Barral took over from his father and transformed it into an independent winery.

Since then, Didier has been driven by a constant curiosity about the vineyard ecosystem, and particularly the interactions between the terroir and the vine. In addition to his 30 hectares of vineyards, he also raises cows and pigs, which regularly roam among the vines, and cultivates a few hectares of wheat.

The estate’s certification in organic farming and its commitment to polyculture reflect Didier’s ultimate goal — achieving harmony with nature, the vines, and the wines.

Today, he continues his quest for knowledge, seeking to further refine both his wines and his craft.

Biodiversity and its protection are central to the winemaking philosophy of Didier Barral.

At the heart of this organically farmed estate lies a true polyculture. After years of careful observation, Didier has witnessed firsthand the vital roles trees and shrubs play in the vineyard ecosystem. But he doesn’t stop there — he regularly brings his herds of cows and Gascon black pigs into the vines. These animals act as natural lawnmowers by grazing on the grass, till the soil through their movements, and enrich it with their manure, fostering a rich and complex microbiome.

The estate’s plantings include Carignan, Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, Terret, Viognier, and Roussanne.

In the cellar, winemaking is as natural as possible — no additives are used, except for the occasional very small dose of sulphur when bacterial levels run too high. Ageing takes place either in oak barrels or concrete vats, depending on the cuvée.

In the glass, the reds offer aromas of black and red fruits, often accompanied by hints of leather. The white shows a more floral character, with notes of dried fruit and a touch of minerality.

The result is a collection of wines that are digestible, fresh, balanced, and wonderfully complex, each expressing the unique character of the estate’s terroir.